After a statement win over Utah, BYU head coach Kalani Sitake isn’t letting his players get too comfortable. While Cougar Nation celebrates a rivalry victory, Sitake has his eyes fixed firmly on the next challenge — and the dangers of complacency.
“Losing hurts more than winning feels good,” Sitake reminded his team after the Utah game. It’s a phrase rooted in hard-earned experience. Last season, BYU was undefeated at 9-0 after beating the Utes — before stumbling to back-to-back losses against Kansas and Arizona State. Costly turnovers, missed assignments, and overconfidence derailed what could have been a historic run. Sitake doesn’t intend to let that happen again.
BYU’s Next Test: Iowa State on the Road
At 7-0, BYU faces a new challenge this weekend — a road matchup against Iowa State, a team that has historically been a tough opponent. The Cougars have never beaten the Cyclones in football, losing all five previous meetings. Sitake knows the record doesn’t define this current BYU roster, but he’s aware that playing in Ames is a test of discipline and focus.
“I know this team is good enough to beat Iowa State,” Sitake said during practice. “But only if we play at our highest level — no shortcuts.”
BYU’s Defensive Strategy: Stop the Run, Contain Becht
Defensive coordinator Jay Hill has emphasized execution as the key to victory. Iowa State’s offense revolves around quarterback Rocco Becht, who has thrown for 1,622 yards with nine touchdowns and just three interceptions this season. Becht is considered one of the best quarterbacks BYU will face this year.
“I love his competitive nature,” Hill said. “He can throw it, he can run it, he’s really smart — a complete player.”
The Cyclones, however, have been struggling offensively, converting only 6 of 28 third downs over their last two games. BYU’s defense, ranked among the best in the Big 12 on third-down stops and red-zone defense, will look to capitalize on that weakness.
Defensive end Logan Lutui added that discipline will be crucial. “The biggest thing with our defense is execution,” he said. “When we stick to our assignments, we play at our best.”
BYU’s Offense: Relying on Balance
On the offensive side, freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier continues to impress. Leading a 7-0 team as a first-year starter, Bachmeier will face one of his toughest environments yet at Jack Trice Stadium, known for its loud, hostile crowds. Sitake wants his young QB to stay poised and trust his reads.
The offense will once again lean heavily on running back LJ Martin, who currently leads the Big 12 in rushing yards. Martin’s success on the ground not only moves the chains but also fuels Bachmeier’s play-action passing — a weapon that has opened up big plays for receivers Chase Roberts and Parker Kingston.
Iowa State’s defense, particularly its secondary, has shown vulnerabilities against explosive plays — something BYU will look to exploit.
The Bigger Picture
For BYU, this game isn’t just another conference matchup. It’s a chance to prove that the win over Utah wasn’t a one-off. Sitake wants his team to build momentum, not repeat history.
The Cougars’ final stretch — which includes showdowns with Texas Tech and Cincinnati — could determine whether they remain contenders or fade late in the season once again.
Defensive leaders have made it clear: focus and execution are non-negotiable. “We’re grateful for a second chance,” said Lutui. “We remember what happened last time, and we’re going to make the most of it.”
If BYU fails to heed Sitake’s warning, they risk learning that same hard lesson all over again — that losing, indeed, hurts more than winning feels good.
